Joann Helen McCann

Joann Helen McCann, née Merker, age 85, of Ridley Park, PA, passed away on June 12, 2026. Joann was born and raised in Darby, PA, where she graduated from Holy Child Academy. She was a long-time resident of Ridley Park. For much of her adult life, Joann worked as an Executive Secretary for VWR Scientific, Scott Paper, and Ethyl Corporation.

Joann’s holiday celebrations were a cherished family tradition. Christmas Eve featured festive family dinners, beautifully wrapped gifts in coordinated colors, and multiple Christmas trees decorating the house. Her famous “Survivor” Easter egg hunt was a favorite among the grandchildren, who followed clues throughout the house in search of overflowing Easter baskets filled with her homemade Easter eggs. For each grandchild’s birthday, she created a special tradition of a shopping spree and lunch with the birthday child, making each celebration memorable.

Those who knew Joann will remember her as a perennial volunteer at St. Madeline Catholic Church Parish, where she worshiped for 62 years. She was a past Prefect of Sodality, a longtime coordinator of the parish lectors, and a volunteer on many parish committees. Her contributions to bake sales were legendary, including her cakes and homemade candy.

Joann was a creative and talented woman whose sewing skills brought joy to family and friends. She lovingly made many Halloween costumes for her children and grandchildren, as well as wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and colonial costumes worn during the Bicentennial celebrations. Joann was also a voracious knitter, who cherished the friendship and camaraderie of the women in her knitting group at Finely a Knitting Party in Swarthmore. Their Saturday evening knitting gatherings were filled with laughter, wine, snacks, and good conversation; although, sometimes not much knitting was completed.

Joann is survived by her three children, Kimberly McCann-Roller (Bill), Kathleen Hodges (Bill), and Matthew McCann; four grandchildren, Amy Roller, Joshua Hodges (Alex), Emily Roller, and Victoria Hodges; and her brother Raymond Merker, Jr. (Fran).

She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Merker, Sr.; her mother, Jennie Merker (née Servinski); and her beloved husband, John “Jack” McCann.

Relatives and friends are invited to her funeral services at Saint Madeline Catholic Church, Ridley Park, PA on Wednesday June 24, 2026. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 AM. Interment will be at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Madeline Catholic Church, 110 Park St., Ridley Park, PA 19078 or at https://www.stmadelineparish.com/